Earnings
Median annual earnings in 2023 dollars of workers ages 25 and older, by education
Note: Refer to the methodology for definitions and further details.
Source: Pew Research Center analysis of 1970, 1980, 1990 and 2000 decennial census, and 2010, 2019 and 2024 American Community Survey (IPUMS).
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
Earnings
Median annual earnings in 2023 dollars of workers ages 25 and older, by education
| Year | Less than high school | HS grad | Some college | Bachelor’s+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1970 | $34,900 | $43,900 | $52,200 | $69,400 |
| 1980 | $33,100 | $40,900 | $47,400 | $62,600 |
| 1990 | $29,000 | $40,200 | $46,900 | $67,000 |
| 2000 | $29,600 | $41,400 | $50,000 | $72,400 |
| 2010 | $27,400 | $38,400 | $48,000 | $75,500 |
| 2019 | $32,400 | $39,900 | $47,900 | $77,900 |
| 2024 | $35,000 | $40,100 | $50,000 | $80,000 |
Note: Refer to the methodology for definitions and further details.
Source: Pew Research Center analysis of 1970, 1980, 1990 and 2000 decennial census, and 2010, 2019 and 2024 American Community Survey (IPUMS).
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
